Here's a brief Q&A for this chapter.
Gage the Hedgehog: Why did you say it twice?
D.J Scales: Thanks.
Owyn Ross: Yes. It will. And Pyra and the gang would learn more about the rebellion. Then they continue their search for the Four Brave Dragons after they're done celebrating.
Finally, Disclaimer: This is a non-profit fan based story. Spyro The Dragon was created by Insomniac Games, and is owned by Microsoft, Activision, and Toys For Bob. Please support the official releases.
Pyra Vs the Rebels part 2 & Beginning the Winter Journeys
*Hours earlier before Pyra's battle…*
A regiment of Gnorc Loyalists were marching through the Realm of Gnasty's loot, deciding to scout ahead for the dragons, to give them any knowledge of the lands, if it'll play a part in ensuring that the dragons will gain an advantage in their upcoming fight against the rebels. If so that they'll prove themselves as having truly changed for the better. And out of appreciation for the dragons' mercy towards them.
The dragons appreciated them for that, seeing that they could work as scouts, as well as fellow soldiers that they hope to lead well in battle. Especially against the rebels that were trying to take over the Dragon Worlds in Gnasty's place. If so that they can avenge him.
But not if the invasion force of the dragons, and the Loyalist Gnorcs have anything to say about that, as the regiment was marching through the whole place, trying to see where the Rebels could be hiding themselves.
Which wasn't easy, as the Gnorc was hiding well in the Realm that the dragons were making an assault on. If so that they will win this war.
The dragon that was leading the scouting regiment, and had a name tag reading "Dragon Commander", was walking in the middle of the Loyalist Gnorcs that were marching, wearing a golden helmet with red armor, holding a red shield. He was a Peace Keeper that was looking forward to becoming a better Peace Keeper dragon warrior by leading this party against the Gnorc rebels. Not that he was going to arrogantly flaunt it to the others. He was taught to never let his arrogance get in the way of his ability to fight, and keep the order in the desert World of the Peace Keepers.
He was leading the regiment that had a few dozen of the Gnorc Loyalist soldiers following him, as they walked into a path that was in between all of the huts that the Loyalist Gnorcs knew that the Gnorc rebels would be hiding themselves in, if so that they will find any signs that they could be getting close to the fortress that the faction could be hiding and taking shelter in.
The dragon was on a lookout for the signs that could indicate where the rebels would be hiding themselves, while also making sure to see the sign of any more Gnorcs that may be hiding themselves in the surrounding areas.
"Hey boss! You see anything?" A Gnorc loyalist asked the dragon.
"Nothing yet." He responded. "Maybe they're aware that a Peace Keeper is leading this Regiment. And they're smartly, yet cowardly hiding themselves among those huts for safety."
"Well if it is that, maybe they're hiding themselves in one of the buildings that we saw in front of us." The other soldier said, as he was pointing out a path that had a couple of huts in front of them, indicating that there was someplace in the area where the Gnorcs could be nearby.
"That could be the case. So brace yourselves, Gnorcs. They're probably going to ambush us." The dragon said.
Little did he know, how correct he would be.
As they were around the huts, the Gnorcs were in the other huts that was around the huts that were more in the center of the settlement as they were preparing for their ambush. Which would begin with a little surprise that they had for the Gnorc Loyalists within those huts.
And they were surprises that none of the Loyalists would be happy to receive.
"What or who could be in there?" One of the Gnorcs asked another.
"I don't know." The other responded. "I suppose that we could check in this hut and see."
"Be sure to be careful about that, in case it is a trap." The dragon called out.
The Gnorcs obeyed as they were careful about scanning the hut that caught their attention. However, it was one among the other huts that had the traps inside them.
And the rebels were about to set them off. As one of them had a plunger detonator in his hands, as he was ready to press it once the Loyalists were close to it.
"Now?" The Gnorc Rebel with the plunger, asked.
"Almost…" The other Gnorc said, hoping that the Loyalists would be around the hut among others to get caught in the explosions once they get set off. Which had to take a moment until the Gnorc felt that enough Gnorcs could get taken out in the explosions. "Now!" He called out.
The plunger was soon pressed.
*BOOOOOM* *BOOOOOOOM* *BOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*
A bunch of explosions sounded at the huts, and even around the huts, as the explosions caught the attention of the dragon, and ended up catching a couple Gnorc Loyalists in their explosions.
Which had the Dragon and the other Gnorc Loyalists startled at the sight of a bunch of them being consumed by the explosions from the huts. Causing their numbers to dwindle. But that was the beginning of their troubles.
"CHAAARGE!" A Gnorc Rebel called out as the rebels were now swarming the group, who ended up defiantly fighting back with the help of the dragon who shot back against the rebels with his arrows.
The fight was even though, as the Loyalists and the dragon put up a good fight, against the ambushing rebels. And they were determined to take them down to at least weaken the numbers of the Gnorcs as they could in order to help the invasion run a bit smoother than now, considering that this was seemingly their first fight against the rebels.
All of which, was proving themselves as more crafty than the dragons and the Loyalists expected. Considering the ambush battle that they were in.
And that battle was unfortunately turning in the Rebel's favor. As the rebels still had numbers on their side. And they were slowly outnumbering the regiment as they were forced to retreat the same way they came in to get to safety, with the dragon's help to cover their retreat.
He slung arrows at the rebels and fought hard against them while the surviving Gnorc Loyalists were running away for their lives as the dragon archer was fighting for them, bravely fighting despite being outnumbered by the rebels.
And he knew it too. Which was why he too was retreating with the remaining Loyalists. Which dwindled down to a few in their retreat. All because of the ambush that though was not a devastating defeat for the dragon as they thought it would, it nevertheless was a successful one that pushed the dragon back, along with the rebels.
*Present*
After the battle, the invasion courtesy of the dragons and the loyalists wasn't off to a good start. As the rebels now had the upper hand, and were able to defend their fortress well.
The dragon was able to survive the fight though, but he became more weary of any ambush that he knows he must avoid walking into, as he wizened up to the rebels.
Whom, continued to defend the fortress from any dragon that is able to join the battle against it.
Until Pyra came to the fortress' battlefield, that is.
Even though the rebels were able to gain an advantageous position, their chances of winning the fight, was decreasing as the loyalists and the dragons continue to chip away at them, until a regiment of dragons, and loyalists with Pyra among them, was able to get to a place where they could find a way to the fortress where the leader is.
Which is where Pyra is now. As she was darting through the halls of the fortress, trying to get to the room where the leader was. So that she can take her out, before her rebellion would gain enough strength to be a problem for the whole dragon worlds. Not to mention overwhelming her fellow dragon friends, and Ignitus into making them retreat, or capturing them.
While she was hopeful that the dragons that she was with, including Ignitus, would be okay. And will be able to survive to fight another day, by fighting their way to safety, or the dragons could save them from the rebels, like if the other dragons were able to find the fortress after her group, or more of the dragons that was still searching for the Quartet, would be putting their search on hold to save her group. Oh how she hopes the latter would happen. Because that way, the other dragons would help put this rebellion down without trouble if all of them joined in.
Especially once they could see her defeat the leader.
For now, she was continuing to dart her way through the hallways. When she was able to reach the room where she knows the leader should be as she slammed open the door.
Only it was a dining room with a grand table that was in the middle of it. Obviously, where the Gnorcs would be feasting on it. She could even notice some bones of chicken on it. It grossed her out. But she ignored it as she didn't dawdle. She still needed to find the room where the leader is.
So she went through the door that was behind the table. That led to another hall that she had to traverse through.
Which she was sure, led to the throne room where the leader has to be. And the hall was pretty long, which had her feeling tense as she ran her way to the throne room. Which had her feeling nervous about meeting the leader in battle. She even had some thoughts that her chances of surviving, let alone winning the whole fight, was starting to get low.
But regardless of her fears, she was determined to end this rebellion before it gets any worse for her people. And throughout her run, she reminded herself of those important goals she needed to succeed in as she got closer to what she hopes is the throne room.
Once she reached the doors, she was both relieved that she found the room she looked for, yet also a bit terrified of what room she entered.
The throne room happened to look mechanical. It happened to have some metal pipes on the sides of the throne that looked like metallic chimneys. Then she noticed that there were doors on the sides of the room that happened to be shaped like a trapezoid if the long bottom line was round in a crescent shape like in an auditorium. And there was three metal pattern lines in the center of the room alongside the metal circles that looked like sewer lids, but happens to have patterns of bright golden glowing circles on each of those lids like an emblem. And speaking of such, there were also banners in the room that signified the Gnorc rebels' ownership of the room in the fortress.
And on the throne herself, was Gnorga. Whom was sitting on it with a frown on her face, which did show flashes of a smirk when she saw Pyra.
"So, the timid dragoness is throwing in her two gems, and proving herself to be the chosen one." Gnorga said.
"I. Am! The chosen one." Pyra emphasized on the first part in determination. "And I've come to put an end to this rebellion, before you hurt everyone else!"
"You? Defeat me? Since when did you get the figurative gall to make that declaration, when before, you were a timid little dragoness who lost her parents?" She then said.
That was a good question. (As well as an insulting one that pissed Pyra off.) As Pyra did occasionally wonder how she got so bold, and lucky enough to get to this moment. When indeed she could've been too scared to be part of this little battle when she should be in a safe place where she can meet the Four Brave Dragons once they return from wherever they are. And yet here she is.
"I've been asking myself that question before. But now I'm sure why." She spoke. As even as she inwardly shivered with fear at the impending battle, she didn't forget how she got this far, nor is she forgetting why she is getting this far as she stood her ground. "Maybe I'm bolder than even I thought. And maybe in this fight, I shall prove it to the other dragons, and the four dragon heroes that defeated your brother, that I can also fight like a Peace Keeper, despite my nervousness, because that is what I am!"
"Ha. And you think that you are gonna have the gall to fight me? You and what army?"
Pyra merely smiled. "I don't need one. Not against you."
That had Gnorga frowning at the boast she made, and the smile that was on her face. Which showed that despite her timidness, Pyra wasn't going to go down without fighting to her last breath.
"Oh, we'll see about that." Gnorga said. Now getting off of her throne.
Where right after that, the room seemingly came to life. As it suddenly got brighter in the room due to more of the torches coming to life. Not only that, but the sections of the pattern lines on the floor did start to glow a bit. Which had her feeling weary of getting on those lines, as her instincts were seemingly telling her that they could be dangerous.
But the main danger was Gnorga. Who was rising out of her throne, and was now prepared for battle as she had a mace in her hand. Not dissimilar to Gnasty's Mace-like scepter. Pyra even guessed that Gnorga's mace could also sling magic like Gnasty's scepter.
And now she was on the floor, in front of Pyra, ready to fight her, while Pyra was also ready to do the same.
"Now, bring it on!" Gnorga said.
Then, starting her fight, Gnorga swung her mace into the floor, making a shockwave of lightning, like Gnasty has against the Four Dragons in his battle.
Only for Pyra to jump upwards, out of reflex. Which allowed her to jump over the shockwave that Gnorga tried to hit her with.
But Gnorga didn't stop there, as she quickly got her mace back up, before swinging it at Pyra in her attempt to smack her while in the air.
Fortunately for Pyra, she was able to roll in the air to dodge the mace's swing. Though it was by a whisker that she was able to. And she knew it, which was why she was pretty nervous that she was going to get hurt in this fight.
Which was reasonable, since she barely dodged another swing from Gnorga's mace, which could've snapped her bones in several places considering that it left a little crater where the mace hit the floor. Just the sight of it was putting a chill up her spine. As she was thankful that it didn't hit her.
But Gnorga was quick in making another swing, showing that despite her girth, she was strong enough to swing the heavy looking weapon with only one hand, and without feeling the weight of it, at least enough of it to slow her swinging speed down. As she demonstrated when she got a hit on Pyra that sent her flying a couple inches.
"AHHH! OOF!" She said as she was landing on the floor. "Ouch!"
She nevertheless was remaining in the fight as she was able to strike back with a tail whip on Gnorga, hitting her across the torso.
It hurt, but Pyra didn't hit her hand, forcing her to drop her mace. Which was something that Gnorga was keen on punishing her on, as she swung the mace again.
Pyra was able to dodge it though, before kicking Gnorga like a horse.
Which showed how strong she was, as Gnorga felt the blow, as well as the pain of it as she fell on the ground, feeling like her own mace struck her there as she was on her back, Only for her to end up rolling back to her feet by rolling backwards, due to her somewhat rotund shape.
Nevertheless, she was starting to see that despite her meek looks, she does have the strength to actually become a major threat to Gnorga. Not enough to be like those Four Dragons that defeated Gnasty, in her eyes at least, but enough to be capable of taking out her rebellion before it could gain enough steam to be a major threat to the Dragons, like Gnasty was.
While also showing her, that she seems to have some knowledge of Dragon Kata herself. Which, she was taught some of from the guardians, including Ignitus, in her dreams. She has yet to master it herself, but she knew she isn't the only one that has a way to go, having been told about the Four Dragons, and their own struggles with Dragon Kata.
It was nevertheless causing her to retreat a bit. "Gnorcs! Come to me, and take her down!" She spoke out to the air.
At her command, a bunch of Gnorc minions, a few of which, were Gnorc gunners, were coming out of the doors that were nearby the arena, and they were on their way to Pyra. Whom was horrified that she was going to fight against the Gnorcs that were interfering on Gnorga's behalf. But she was too determined to run back to her friends, as she stood her ground as they were ready to fight for their Rebel leader.
One of them, wielding a spear, was quickly charging at her with the spear at the ready, only for her to parry the spear with her tail whip, before she was able to headbutt him to knock him out.
Another Gnorc charged at her, also wielding a spear, only for her to pounce onto him like a wolf, before punching him with her paws, before throwing him at the other Gnorcs to knock them down like bowling pins. Which would disorient them and disorganize them. Giving Pyra an advantage since they won't threaten to dogpile her. Before she was soon taking each of them out with her fire breath.
She had only a few melee Gnorcs to deal with, when the Gunner Gnorcs were soon focusing their guns on her, before firing out their nails at her. Forcing her to scramble as she was able to dodge a couple of the Gnorc's nail bullets at her, as she ran around them while squealing in surprise and fear. She was scared suffering any wounds from the nail guns, after hearing how the Four Brave Dragons had trouble with them back when Gnasty's war was starting to wrap up thanks to them.
Even now, she was unnerved that she was going to go fight some gunners, but she continued to run around them, trying to find an opportunity to strike them when they are either reloading, or ceasing their fire when they are risking hitting Gnorga, or their allies.
It's too bad for the latter, that they indeed got hit, killing them, as they vanished and turned into gems. Showing Pyra that the Gnorcs weren't great shots with their guns if they would be clumsy enough to hit their friends. Plus it also showed her that their nail guns also were harmful for the Gnorcs as well. So she was hoping to provoke them into firing again if they'd hit their allies.
"Stop hitting each other, and shoot that dragon brat!" Gnorga demanded, trying to put a stop to their friendly fire accidents.
Pyra was able to keep those accidents going though, by running in between the gunners as they were shooting at her. Though nevertheless, she felt them grazing on her scales, which did hurt. But she knew that they have to be feeling how the Four Dragons feel.
More Gunners ended up falling, along with some of the melee Gnorcs that she was able to maneuver around, while taking down the others. Until there were a few left for her to fight against, unfortunately, there was still a few more gunners left. As they were now taking aim at Pyra, in their attempt to take her out.
Only for her to be defiant as she was shooting at them with her fireballs, determined to take them down before taking Gnorga down once she was through with them.
As she did so though, she was hopeful that her friends outside, weren't getting overrun.
*Meanwhile*
The dragons that followed Pyra, were continuing to hold their own, particularly Luna and Valkyra. As they worked together. With Luna zapping the Gnorcs with her lightning spell from her scepter, while Valkyra was whacking them away with her battle axe.
And what's more, all of the dragons were reunited at the entrance that Pyra took into the fortress, as they fought well against the rebels, including Ignitus as he was fighting them with his own spells of ice and fire.
While Terrador, and Vlamme was swinging their weapons around and breathing their respective breaths at the Gnorcs, being Fire, and ice.
They were each sending the closer Gnorcs flying, and pummeling them bad, while hurtling their fire and other breaths at the other Gnorcs that were trying to scramble up the fortress' path to get to them, giving them plenty of breathing room to hold out for a long time.
They just hoped that it'd be long enough for them to have reinforcements coming to assist them, or for Pyra to take Gnorga down, and make her pay for her attempts at a Rebellion. Even if she is doing this for her brother, (If she truly is his sister) it wasn't a good excuse. What she was doing, is a pointless and petty endeavor.
Not to mention, pretty futile once all of the dragons learns of the Rebellion, causing them to stop their search for the Quartet to put a stop to it. Which was a strong possibility as the dragon group did message the rest of the dragons with the news prior to their battle. So, it was a matter of time until they all join in. Including the Top General of the Peace Keepers himself.
Until then though, they were fighting the rebels, who continued to pour into the area where the fortress happens to be. Showing their numbers that they had in the entire Loot Realm, which was a lot, probably hundreds of thousands of Gnorcs that tried to take them down.
Which showed just how much they have in number, compared to them. How none of them were able to notice the Gnasty's teeth Rebellion, or figure out that there was one, none of them knew. And they were starting to feel like idiots for not figuring out sooner.
Either way, they knew that at least they weren't too late in preventing the Rebellion from getting stronger. At least enough to where they'd rebel once they have enough strength to do so. And they knew that with that despite this, they weren't at enough of a disadvantage to be forced to retreat yet.
They knew though, that taking the place over, was impossible at their current numbers. And not important enough to attempt due to that too. Which was why they were merely following their main objective. Which is to hold them off long enough for Pyra to take Gnorga out. Or to probably have their reinforcements from the other dragons that were hopefully coming, whether from the dragons that were outside, or from the other dragons who decided to forgo their search for the Four Dragons for the moment.
They hoped that it won't be too long, as the numbers were not on their side. Even with their regiment of Gnorc Loyalists that were also fighting hard, and winning their share of engagements with their own guns against the rebels.
Despite that though, all of the dragons knew, that their only main objective is to hold them off long enough for Pyra to win. It wasn't getting easy, but thye were not expecting it to be easy, so they were prepped for a long fight ahead of them.
They just hoped that it won't end in all of them becoming casualties on the battlefield. And that it won't end in the rebels' victory.
"How are you doing, Terrador?" Ignitus asked.
"Doing quite good! I hope she'll make it out of there!" Terrador said, having been told that Pyra was fighting Gnorga.
"As do I, Terrador!" Ignitus said, hoping that his faith in her, isn't misplaced. And that she'll win.
Which is what they were hoping that she would, as they were ensuring that the Gnorcs outside won't interfere on Gnorga's behalf. Even though it also meant that due to all of them holding off the Gnorc's, none of them can help Pyra in her fight too.
Which was why, none of them were wanting to admit it, but it was up to Pyra to defeat Gnorga. Without them around to assist. But they were confident that Pyra won't need their help in the fight, they just hoped that she won't die too if Gnorga won't survive her fight either.
As they continued to fight, Vlamme ended up parrying a blow from a Gnorc. Before breathing her ice at him which froze him solid. Before breaking him into pieces. But another Gnorc was able to take advantage as he was able to hit her in her arm with his mace.
It hurt, but it didn't hurt bad, nor did it break a bone, as she merely shrugged off the pain before she was able to strike back with another swing. Taking down the Gnorc. But it nevertheless hurt, so she was rubbing her arm. Though not for long, as she was swinging her weapon at a Gnorc that was charging her. Striking him before he could hit her, and chopping off his head with her two handed blade that she was strong enough to hold in one hand.
As she did so, Ignitus took another hit from another Gnorc, who hit him with a spear. Which stuck to his scales, but didn't hurt enough as he struck back with his staff.
Soon, the dragons were receiving the strikes from the other Gnorcs, as they were still fighting back against them along with the Loyalists. They were willing to hold out for longer periods but at this rate, if they don't have backup, or if Pyra doesn't finish Gnorga off soon, they might get overwhelmed. And the Gnorcs could kill them alogn with the loyalists.
As was demonstrated as some of the loyalists were falling by nail bullets and by blade, but the rest of them kept fighting for the dragons as they defended them too, showing how much synergy they were starting to give each other throughout the fight. Even if this was seemingly their last stand, they hoped to take all of them down with them, and they hoped that Pyra would win.
They just hoped that one of them would live, particularly Ignitus, who they feel would make Pyra devistated if he were to fall here.
Suddenly, a vehicle showed up, which looked like a miliary vehicle equipped with a fixed gun turret on the front and a pair of treads that looked like wheels. Pretty primitive by a steampunk designed by Gnorcs, but the dragons were looking on in shock and horror at the sight of it.
And it had its barrel raised at the fortress section that they were on, before it soon fired.
"WATCH OUT!" Ignitus called out, making the dragons dodge the shot.
*BOOOM*
It shot out a larger bullet at the dragons, making them dodge it as it blasted the fortress wall, making a little explosion that could've consumed them in its blast if they didn't dodge. While a couple of the Loyalist Gnorcs got obliterated in the explosions, leaving at least fifteen of them left. And they were bravely still going to fight to the last Gnorc.
But it showed them, that if they do not take the tank down, then it'll spell their doom.
What was relieving to know, was that the tank was the only tank that the Gnorc rebels had, according to what they had learned from the other Rebel Gnorcs that they interrogated prior to this assault on their fortress. So they knew that once that tank is destroyed, then their fight won't be as dangerous.
Unfortunately, none of them had any weapon that is able to pierce through the tank's armor. And they felt that their fire balls could leave dents, but none of them were accurate enough to hit the dent again to try to pierce through it. They were simply not having enough options.
They felt that they must retreat out of there. Even though all of them were reluctant to. Especially Ignitus.
"We must retreat!" Terrador said.
"Not without Pyra!" Ignitus spoke back. Hoping that Pyra has beaten Gnorga already, and is currently running her way out and back into the open to rejoin up with them.
"They're not giving us any options!" Terrador argued back. "We either remain here, and become target practice for that tank, or we get back to safety! Trust me, Pyra is stronger than even we all believe!" He then said, referring to the Peace Makers, along with himself and others. "If she's truly as mighty as Valkyra, you and the others say she is, she can fight her way out!"
"And besides, we'll be sure to return to this fortress once that tank is down, or once their numbers are lesser! We'll do our best to escort her out once she's done with Gnorga!" Vlamme said, knowing that Terrador is right, they must escape if they don't want to die here.
Ignitus was reluctant to leave, but he knew that they're right. Despite his fatherly instincts trying to make him continue to defend the fortress long enough to help escort Pyra out of the fortress section of Gnorga's Realm, he is still smart enough to know that it'd be suicide to do so in this situation. Which was why he was soon following them as the tank was firing.
"Please be okay, Pyra." He thought to himself, not wanting to lose her. And right when she just got out of her bubble.
The tank fired a shot or two that threatened to hit the dragons as they were fighting their way out of the area, trying not to let the tank hit them. Which it was getting closer and closer to doing as it fired.
It was soon able to fire again as they were on the second to last floor they were trying to trek on with their regiment of Loyalists, when…
*BOOOOOOOM*
It suddenly exploded into several pieces, which obliterated the other Gnorc rebels.
When the dragons noticed, they suddenly heard flapping of a lot of wings, along with the rebels as they all looked up.
To then see a lot of dragons in the sky. Much to the dragon regiments' relief, along with Ignitus'.
Particularly as they then saw, that they were also led by the dragon leaders themselves including Valkyra's mate, Titan. And Cosmos was also there. Along with Lume and her mate in Lateef. Showing that all of the dragons were now assaulting the place en masse, along with the other dragons that were fighting in the realm with them to distract the rebels and give them a way in.
It showed them that the dragons have heard of the rebellion and were now here to put it down. And they probably put their search for the Quartet on hold in order to do so as well.
Either way, the dragons and the Loyalist Gnorc regiment were smiling at seeing that their cavalry has arrived.
And the rebels were quickly going from confident in their victory over the group, to terrified when they realized that all of them were compromised, and their rebellion was doomed to fail. Along with Gnorga's scheme with the eggs that she planned on giving to their 'man behind the man' was also going up in smoke.
The dragon army was soon upon them. With Titan and Cosmos fighting hard against them while on their way to their mates. The latter of which, also fought harder, with Luna flinging her explosive spells, while Valkyra was chopping the Gnorcs to bits with her axe. Having been inspired to fight on, and not to retreat thanks to the cavalry.
Soon, the rebels were now trying to fight for victory, but they were all being beaten back by the elemental breaths of the dragons, and the superior strength of the Peace Keepers. Some even surrendered and retreated. Knowing that they were doomed.
All while Ignitus was joyous to see this happening, and that the Gnasty's Teeth rebellion was falling. Now all he was hopeful about, is if Pyra was winning her fight.
*Back Inside*
Pyra on the other hand, was back to one on one against Gnorga after taking care of her minions. Which made her confident that she could take her down.
However, she learned the hard way, that unlike Gnasty, who she heard was craven due to running from the Quartet in his battle, Gnorga was braver than she expected.
Which was proven to her, as Gnorga was swinging her mace against Pyra, with no hesitation in her motions, or on her face.
If anything, she was determined to bring down Pyra, costs be damned.
So Gnorga was already swinging her mace, as she was running around, and jumping like an acrobat, which belied her rotund, yet muscular appearance. Pyra expected her to be a bit slow in her movements due to her appearance, but her determination was showing her otherwise.
As was shown when she was still swinging the mace around, even hitting Pyra with her swings that sent her flying which hurt. But Pyra was still fighting back as she was dodging and trying to weave around the swings that Gnorga was doing with her mace.
But Pyra felt that without a dragonfly of her own, then she'll feel pain when she gets hit by anything. As Gnorga's mace was teaching her the hard way, so she hoped that after this, she hopes to find a dragonfly to pair with like the Quartet has, just so she has her own bond that would save her from getting killed.
For now though, she was still on her toes, dodging the strikes from Gnorga's mace, hoping not to get smooshed by her.
Fortunately, she doesn't as Gnorga continues to miss her smash attacks with her mace. But she shoots out magic as well, trying to hit Pyra with her lightning spells, reminding her that she is wielding a scepter that she swings like a mace, similar to Gnasty Gnorc.
Pyra was able to dodge those spells, though they were not easy considering that lightning was fast. Which was why she also shot out lighting breath against Gnorga as well. Whom, fortunately got hit by her lightning breath. And it hurt. Showing that Gnorga isn't immune to shocks either.
Nevertheless, Gnorga didn't give up that easily. As she continued fighting back with her scepter, succeeding in hitting Pyra.
Which sent her flying again, but she was right back in the fray with her fire breath on Gnorga, which harmed her, but she withstood the heat.
Gnorga struck back with a fireball, but Pyra dodged it before breathing out her icicle dart at Gnorga, hitting her in the shoulder. Which barely affected her.
Nevertheless, Gnorga was still swinging back, being able to fight back hard. No matter which element that Pyra used for her breaths, and no matter how hard she tried to fight. It was like Gnorga was learning from Gnasty's cowardice, and was refusing to be like him, knowing that it could've played a part in why the Quartet ended up beating him.
And instead, she fought hard, while Pyra was feeling intimidated by her fighting spirit. She didn't expect that she'd be a lot more of a fighter compared to his brother in Gnasty.
That fact, led to Gnorga's advantage as they fought for minutes, until with another swing, she got a hit on Pyra, this time upside her head. Which left her stunned as she hit the wall behind her as she dodged the preceding swing.
And that was the opportunity for Gnorga that she wasn't going to waste, as she threw Pyra to the middle of the area they were in, before she was soon wailing on Pyra with her mace swings, ensuring that by the time she's done with her, she would be tomato paste on her floor, and get finished off for good. At least she could slay a dragon to prove that she's as dangerous as Gnasty could've been.
This was the nadir of Pyra's fight. And she felt that she was about to be doomed to a gruesome end of her fight against Gnorga if she wasn't guarding, which left herself surprised that she was tougher than she thought, but she nevertheless felt that she was about to die. She just hoped that regardless of her death, Gnorga will still be beaten if not by herself then the others.
Pyra did guard and withstand the blows, while she tried to parry, but Gnorga's mace was not easy to guard against since even while guarding, she still gets hurt by its mass. Almost to the point that her arms would break if they weren't bracing for it.
And soon, Gnorga was now swinging, trying to deal her finishing blow, and flatten Pyra's ribcage. Much to her horror.
Only for time to stand still for some reason.
Much to Pyra's surprise. As she thought that was it for her. And she was about to die, and that this could be her life flashing before her eyes. And yet time was pausing. While she's the only one that was moving her head, looking around at her surroundings.
Then as she did, she ended up looking to her right where a light was forming.
The light was brightening as it briefly illuminated the whole room, making Pyra avert her eyes, before she was soon looking at the light again.
Only to see her mother in place of it. Whom was a strong red dragoness that wore armor. She knew who the older dragon in armor was.
"Mommy?! Mommy!" Pyra said, joyous that she saw her mom again as she ran to her side to hug her.
Which she returned, hugging her back. "My dear daughter. It is great to see you again."
"Likewise." Pyra said, smiling that she has met her mother again. Even if she had a feeling that it'd be for a little while.
Once her cuddles was done, Pyra's mom gestured to her to look behind her. Which, she did to see that she saw herself, under the mace that Gnorga was trying to flatten her under. Much to her startled surprise.
"Am I dead? Is time standing still?" She asked, wondering why Time is paused.
"It's indeed the latter, Pyra." Her mom said. "As for why, it is because I am visiting you from the afterlife. Considering what I am seeing."
Pyra felt a bit ashamed. "I'm sorry mommy. I just wanted to prove myself. I didn't think that I'd face a foe that is too dangerous for me."
"Stop it!" Her mom replied a little loudly, making her look into her eyes, showing how stern, she is, like last time. "You're doing it again, Pyra. You're risking forgetting us."
"No! I can't be!" Pyra said, shedding a few tears. "How could I?"
"You're doubting yourself, and forgetting what you're capable of, and in doing so, you're forgetting us. Look inside yourself." She said, gently putting her talon on Pyra's chest. "You're more than what you have become. You must prove yourself as a potential hero, worthy of becoming one of the great heroes alongside those Four Brave Dragons."
"But… I can't."
"You must remember who you are. Remember what you are now, due to Ignitus' help. The Peace Keeper dragon, like the rest of us, regardless of your timid traits." She responded to Pyra.
"Are you sure? I don't know how I can be like you, and Daddy." Pyra said, sadly.
"As a fellow knight of the Peace Keepers, and a friend of Valkyra and her mate, I am most of all, proud of one thing." Pyra's mom said, caressing her gently in a hugging motion. "Having you, for our daughter."
Pyra ended up smiling at that, reminded of the love that her parents gave her. Remembering, that regardless of her timidness, and her shrinking violet traits, they simply cared for her, and nurtured her into being ready to gain the courage to show what she's made of.
Not to mention, protecting her from any of the resenting Peace Keepers near her age, that bullied her, trying to make her toughen up, among other foes.
She knew though, that her parents are gone, due to their sacrifice in trying to protect Pyra from the attacking Gnorcs that Gnasty sent to her Home World. "That was years ago."
"No. That is eternal." Pyra's mom said. "A mother's love will remain. Despite death taking us away, my love for you as a mother, is forever. As is my husband's love, for you. Don't forget that fact, whenever you think of us."
Pyra smiled as she shed her tears, knowing that she's right. The love of her parents will be remembered by her. Even since they're dead. And gone from her life.
She suddenly felt and noticed that her mom is now starting to walk away. Probably back to the afterlife, much to Pyra's horror. "Wait! Please, don't leave me again!" She said, grasping her mom by her hand.
Pyra's mom smiled at her after looking back to her. "I didn't leave you. And I won't."
"B-But can't I come with?"
"And waste your chance to meet the Four Brave Dragons?" Pyra's mom asked, still smiling. "After all, you desire to meet them with your new father in Ignitus, do you not?" Then she got serious. "Plus, how would your new father feel if you let Gnorga win."
The question alone, had Pyra immediately stopping in her tracks. After all, it was her dream to meet the Four Brave Dragons, to thank them for stopping Gnasty from taking over the Dragon Worlds. And to join them, as a new member, and as a hero. And so, wanting to follow her mom to the afterlife, and letting Gnorga kill her, would totally waste that chance. Not to mention, she remembered how heartbroken and distraught Ignitus would be if she died by Gnorga's hands after all she went through.
Just those thoughts, had Pyra feeling ashamed, and regretting that question. "S-Sorry mommy. I shouldn't have asked that."
Pyra's mom merely continued to smile in response. "See, you are striving to improve yourself. That's the Pyra that I know. And remember well." She spoke, now carrying Pyra to where she was, under Gnorga's mace as she places her by her side.
"Now, you must remember to be that dragon that I remember raising. The one that improves herself, as you kick Gnorga's butt. And end her rebellion before it can begin. Do it for us. And do it for the Four Dragons. And for Ignitus. Do you understand?" She asked.
Pyra nodded, regardless of the tears on her face, she was ready to fight like her life depends on it. And she won't back down, this time.
"Good. Now, keep on fighting. And don't stop, until you're victorious. Remember, who you are, now." Pyra's mom said, now fading away as she was walking away back to the afterlife.
Which was right when Time was starting to move again. As it was slowly resuming to normal. Which gave Pyra enough time to roll out of the way of Gnorga's mace.
Now she was back on the offensive, as Pyra was striking back against Gnorga with her Dragon Kata.
And Gnorga was surprised at the fact that she initially had Pyra on the figurative ropes, only for her to suddenly end up fighting back with more effort, and without the fear that she sensed from Pyra. It caught her off guard.
But it also angered her. "Why you little!" She said, angrily, swinging her mace-like scepter at Pyra, whom was able to dodge her. Before Pyra hit her with a dragon punch. Before Pyra was now fully ready, as she fought back with Dragon Kata. Complete with some uppercuts, and some punches, and tailwhips. Each of which connected to Gnorga, despite her efforts to guard them.
Gnorga tried to swing back with her mace-like scepter, but Pyra was fast enough to dodge them, before continuing her assault. Beginning with some more uppercuts that knocked her back, before continuing her assault on Gnorga, with some punches, kicks and even buck kicking her like a mule.
Each of which did do damage to Gnorga, showing how mighty Pyra was when she is fighting hard. Yet Gnorga took them like she was as durable as Pyra was. As she started to swing back with her mace-like scepter, but Pyra dodged it again.
Gnorga continued to swing, but as if there was clairvoyance flowing through her instincts, Pyra was able to dodge each strike while making her own, each of which was able to leave a mark on Gnorga, all while she also briefly stood on her hind legs in order to deliver her punches. Almost like she was getting more balanced.
Sure, she nearly got hit by Gnorga's mace-like scepter, but she dodged, and weaved, showing Gnorga that the mace among other heavy weapons isn't going to be a practical weapon against someone who is speedy and flexible enough to dodge it. No matter how hard Gnorga was trying.
And even if Gnorga was able to get a hit on Pyra, at this point it was only some grazing hits, not enough to send her flying, or leave enough of a cut.
And despite her determination, Gnorga was facing a losing battle. And Pyra was going to make sure that the tide won't turn in her favor again. As she was using her uppercut headbutt, before she then kicked her on her stomach, then punched her in her torso hard enough to feel her chest bones cracking a little, then kicking her in her solar plexus, then kicked her in her face, then headbutted her in the stomach again, etc.
As she was unleashing her fury onto her, like the Four Brave Dragons did to Gnasty, while all Gnorga could do is swing her mace-like scepter at her, and punch her, both of which was being dodged by Pyra, who continued to assault her. Even if Gnorga did land a punch on her after being knocked back a bit, it wasn't a strong enough punch that could hurt, as Pyra was now wrapping up the fight with a major punch.
And that punch, had fire added to it, like in her fury, she was able to master an elemental melee attack like the Four Dragons did, as it now sent Gnorga flying, right into her throne.
Which caused the whole room to rumble from the impact. As Gnorga groaned from the pain of being flung into her throne as she had to adjust herself on it to a comfier position to try to heal off her bruises. But Pyra knew she wasn't able to rise off of it to continue.
Gnorga was defeated.
Now Gnorga was trying to adjust herself on it to stop the pain from flaring up. "Nng! Damn!" She groaned out. As Pyra was now walking up to her.
"It's over, Gnorga. Your Rebellion is about to be doomed, once all of the dragons are ending their search for the Four, to come here and finish your army off. Now surrender, or face your punishment." Pyra said, feeling that she's not gonna be given mercy if she remains defiant. No matter the odds.
And yet she remained defiant anyway, as she glared at Pyra. "You think you've won? That this is your legend in the making? Well I beg to differ." She then said, before slamming her fist into a button that appeared on the armrest of the throne.
Suddenly, the whole fortress started to rumble, like the steam machines inside were going into overload. Which ended up being emphasized by some booms that was being made in the fortress. Much to Pyra's shock and terror as she knew what this could be.
"Because today, we are both losing." Gnorga then said, before suddenly, her throne flipped backwards, into the wall behind, and out of the fortress where she'd now be outside, and climbing her way down, despite her wounds, to where she can flee to fight another day.
Meanwhile back in the fortress, Pyra, hearing some explosions, and seeing some bits of the ceiling falling to the floor, was quick to run back out of the arena room she was in, before she was soon running through the halls. Galloping like a horse as she tried to find a way out. And soon, before the fortress ends up blowing up and collapsing with her in it.
So she ran through the path that she remembered taking, to the dining room, where she saw to her horror that the way she came in, was blocked by a pile of rubble. Now she was forced to choose another path out of the fortress if so she won't get caught in the explosions, or the collapsing rubble.
So she dashed to another doorway that led to another room which looked like a children Gnorc room, complete with toys and a TV Set. But she kept running to another doorway, which led to a living room, then another door to a bathroom, (Which had a toilet that seems to not have been flushed, considering a bad smell that almost had Pyra gagging.) before going to another door.
It felt like a maze for her, which didn't bode well for Pyra's survival.
Fortunately, she was able to find a door leading somewhere else. Hoping it was an exit, she dashed through it, finding herself running through a cave path, which could mean that she is out of the fortress.
But she wasn't out of the woods yet, considering that she was still feeling the rumbles, and some explosions that sounded as she was continuing to run.
"Please tell me this is the place to escape." She said to herself as she contnued running nervously.
Then she saw something that had her squealing before she stopped herself, her claws making marks on the rock until she skidded to a halt.
Right in front of the gap that led to a seemingly bottomless pit. Making her relieved that she didn't fall in. But now she had to find a way over it. Which wasn't easy to do when it came to gliding. Since the other side was level with her side of the gap, and she didn't have enough high ground, or thrust upwards, to glide to the other side.
"Oh no. I wish I could fly already." She said, trying not to look down, or she'd be yelling and cowering. So she just looked around.
Where she saw a section of the rocky floor against the wall that she could shimmy on. And it looked like the only one way to get to the other side, where her salvation is.
"Ancestors guide me. Because I hope this works." She said, making a little prayer, before she was soon running to the shimmy section, before standing up on her hind legs, then leaning towards the wall with her paws on it.
Now she was shimmying across the wall, while she was keeping her eyes on the exit, making sure not to look down at the bottom, considering her fear of heights. Which in this case, is 100% reasonable as she couldn't fly, only glide like the Four Dragons did. If she could fly, then she would totally face her fear of heights once she is in the air.
But now, she was trying not to look down and panic as she was shimmying until she makes it to the other end. Which wasn't long, as she was pretty fast in her shimmy before she was back on the move, knowing that she is about to be home free.
And right on time, as she was seeing the outside, where she saw more shimmy sections that was pretty long, and was leading to the lower sections outside, where she knows her friends could be waiting. While from the side, she was witnessing the fortress' destruction that happened just seconds after she got outside. Then she gasped when she then saw the cave she just exited just collapsed as well, with a rock pile blocking her way back in. But she was safe outside with no signs of the rest of the cave collapsing on her, despite the rumbling. Which had her sighing in relief.
While back outside, the dragons and Gnorc Loyalists that were now cleaning up the area from their massacre of the rebels, when they witnessed the fortress collapsing, shortly after capturing Gnorga, whom was climbing down, trying to find a way past them to a new hiding place, when Lume ended up finding her, alongside Luna and Valkyra. All of whom, with their mates' help, captured her despite her attempts to fight them, and run. Which, was impossible due to still being wounded by Pyra's fists.
And now, the dragon mates were in the middle of hugging, and kissing out of happiness with their mates, while also hugging their best friend in Lume, when they all witnessed the fortress blowing up before collapsing, along with all of Gnorga's hopes and dreams of her rebellion succeeding, and creating an independent Gnorc faction that would conquer all of the Dragon Worlds, if Gnasty returns from the dead.
Which was a sight to see, as well as a terrifying sight when they noticed that Pyra wasn't running out of the fortress.
A fact that was not lost on Ignitus, who was trying to run to it, only to be held back. "No Ignitus! You can't die like this!"
"Please, let me go! Let me get her out!" Ignitus said, with tears in his eyes, hoping that Pyra wasn't inside when the fortress collapsed, despite what Gnorga said. Somehow, he knows that she could still be alive, and escaping.
Another explosion was made from where the fortress stood, which didn't harm anyone, but did leave the dragons backing up, as it was barely not close enough to harm them, but enough to make them back up to safety as even Ignitus was doing so as he covered his face to cover it from the shockwaves and smoke. Before he was looking on with a somber look on his face.
"Don't despair. I'm sure she got out. We just need to wait." Lateef said, putting his hand on his shoulder in a gesture of support, and calming him down. Which had Ignitus still holding out hope that what Lateef said is true.
He nevertheless was showing tears in his eyes as he was silently crying out for Pyra. Oh how he hoped that she was still alive, and that she was able to escape the fortress.
As did all of the dragons that followed Pyra, as they were somber, and hopeful that she has indeed survived the whole fortress collapsing.
As minutes passed though, each dragon was feeling more somber when they were seeing that Pyra wasn't coming back out, making it seem like she has indeed failed to leave the fortress when it blew up and collapsed.
Especially Ignitus, who continued to silently cry as he was looking at the ground in sorrow. "Pyra." He said, trying not to cry despite the tears leaking from his eyes.
As did all of the dragons, even Lume was saddened to see that Pyra was possibly dead too, having befriended her even before she was adopted by Ignitus. After having met her through her friends in Valkyra and Luna. And she had grown fond of Pyra for being adorable, and for being an uncommon Peace Keeper that was timid and level headed, which in her eyes, made her more endearing.
And now she could be dead. As if her missing daughter wasn't enough of a sad and stressful thing to happen in front of her. Now she has seemingly lost another dragoness who is also like such to her, alongside Valkyra and Luna.
At least, until Valkyra looked around after some brooding, when she saw something moving beyond some of the smoke of the fortress' remains, that was shimmying on the edges of the rocky cliff.
Which, had her trying to look closely until her face started to brighten up and have her tell Ignitus what she was seeing.
Pyra. Who was shimmying away on the wall of the outside area that they were in on her hind legs while leaning on the wall. Basically taking a long way around to join the dragons. Much to her relief when she saw that Pyra was indeed alright. As well as much to Gnorga's chagrin when she saw that she was able to escape without dying.
Back with Pyra, she was still shimmying on the edge, trying not to fall to the water that was under her, as she was taking occasonal glances at the fortress, feeling relieved that she got out of there in one piece before she could get killed inside.
And now she was continuing to shimmy, feeling herself getting used to standing on the hind legs for this occasion, as she was usually on all fours like other dragon whelps, and even the other young dragons her age. So the fact that she was shimmying on the edge was unusual for her body to say the least. But still, at least she was safe. Now she just needed to shimmy for a couple minutes until she is back by the dragons' side. Particularly Ignitus'.
Hearing the flapping of the wings, Pyra initially cowered, hoping that a flying beast ridden by a Gnorc wasn't behind her, ready to eat her before she could be by the dragons' side. Until she realized, that the only things that the Gnorcs rode on, was just some planes. So what was behind her?
"I had hope that you have survived your fight with Gnorga. And I wasn't disappointed. You truly are amazing." Valkyra's voice sounded, making her turn to see that she was flying behind her, smiling in joy at seeing her.
Which had Pyra smiling back at her in relief, and joy. "Valkie. T-Thank you." She said, in gratitude for the praise.
"No problem. Let's take you back to your dad." She responded, before gently carrying Pyra from the edge, and flying back to the dragons that were now seeing her come back.
Where they saw Pyra was in her arms, much to their joy, especially Ignitus, who was happy to see that Pyra was alive as Valkyra was soon back on land, to put her down. "Pyra!"
"Father!" She responded, as she was now running to Ignitus, before hugging him in relief, as he did likewise.
"I was so worried that you have perished in there, when I waited for you to exit. I'm so glad that my horrors weren't realized." He said.
"As am I. I'm happy to be with you again, father." Pyra said. Smiling that she has returned to Ignitus' side without dying. "I'm sorry to have made you worry.
"You don't need to apologize, as I also was confident that you would be coming back, alive and well." Ignitus said, continuing to hold her in his arms. "And what's more. You've beaten Gnorga, and prevented the rebels from gaining enough steam to threaten all of the Dragon Worlds, while the Four Dragons are gone. You truly have grown into another hero." Ignitus then said.
"Indeed. At this point, we're all proud of you for overcoming your doubt, and defeating those villainous Gnorc rebels." Cosmos said, happy that Pyra won.
"I'm in agreement with him. You truly have proven yourself as a lot better than you have been in the past. I'm sure that your parents are happy to have had you for their daughter." Titan then said, also happy about Pyra.
Before each Dragon ended up giving their praise and congratulations to Pyra. Who blushed at the praise as she was smiling back at them. Feeling uplifted, and joyous to being showered in their appraisal for her accomplishments. Which was defeating the Rebellion.
"T-Thank you all." She said, as she was out of Ignitus' arms. "I have to say, there were times that I thought that it'd be it for me. But if it wasn't for you, and my parents, I wouldn't be here, a hero that defeated Gnorga and her Rebellion. I am truly blessed to be here." She spoke.
Which did leave the dragons touched. While they were then staring on in surprise. Much to Pyra's confusion.
"What? I know it was kind of surprising that I was able to get out of there, but…"
"Pyra. Look at yourself." Ignitus said, also surprised.
"What do you mean? I don't… know why…" She said, only to end up noticing as she looked down to see what made them surprised.
She was standing. On her hind legs. Not on all fours like the dragon whelps, and other teenage dragons. But on both legs, like the other adult dragons. Which was a shock to her when she noticed.
"I'm… by the ancestors. I am!" She said, feeling shocked that she was standing on her hind legs like they are. It was like the shimmying might've helped her in her balance. Either way, she was pleasantly surprised to be here, as a victor, and standing on only her hind legs.
All while the other dragons that weren't keeping Gnorga tied up, were now praising her for having truly grown up, particularly Lume, Luanne, Vlamme, Adiel, Luna and Valkyra, while Ignitus hugged her again in gratitude. Now it seems that her Dragon Kata training with the Four Dragons was going to be fun. (While little did they all know so far, the Four Dragons were also able to stand up on their hind legs.)
Once their appraisal was done, they were soon focusing on an important matter, before they begin their celebrations.
Being that Gnorga was still here, now a prisoner, as Valkyra, Luna, Titan and Cosmos was now interrogating her for info.
"So, you say, that you're Gnasty's sister?" Titan said.
She nodded. "Indeed. Sure he's ugly, but he is my brother nonetheless, and I was heartbroken and enraged when I heard the news of his demise by those Four Dragons' hands." She angrily said.
"How come we never heard about you though?" Titan then asked, having not learned of her presence throughout their war with Gnasty.
She ended up smiling in response. "There is an upside to being obscure after all. No one ever knows who you are, which makes it easy to thieve around for the Gems, to create my own army of Loyal Gnorcs, like he did." She said. "Too bad that my brother's spell book was taken and confiscated by you Magic Crafters though, as I would've been able to cast that same Crystal Freeze spell to trap you all in Crystal, and take over the worlds, while those Four Lizards are gone if I had it memorized."
Which was a relief to hear for Pyra. As she felt that if she had the spell, then history could've repeated itself, only this time, if she missed her, then it'd be up to Pyra to save the Dragon Worlds, like the Four Dragons did. Which in that case, she might not be ready for that. (Not that she is not going to be willing to go through with saving the dragons, to save the Worlds with.)
"True. True." Cosmos said, deadpan. "Nevertheless, your rebellion is over. You are finished."
"And, you shall tell us what you know. What reason is your rebellion trying to take our Dragon eggs?" Valkyra asked, demanding an answer to their question. Seeing that Gnorga's rebellion has lost. Which meant that she has to have no choice but to tell them.
Something that even Gnorga knows. Which had her groaning in disappointment. "Fine. We're taking these eggs, for the villainous figure from underground that we met while we were mining for materials to create new weapons with. She came to us with some magical spells that she tested out on a few of my Gnorcs, and myself to give us extra strength, and there was also with an ability to mind control dragons into becoming our war beasts to ride into battle. Which if there were any that we captured when we met her, you could've met one of them on this battlefield. And that was just some of the spells from her book that she could've given us, once we give her at least 50 eggs that my Gnorcs gains. Which unfortunately, is a bargain that could've been held up, had this battle not occurred."
A fact that relieved Pyra, who learned that the dragons that battled against the rebels, were able to get them back from them when the other dragons joined in, having found the eggs that they were able to steal away, prior to Pyra stopping one of them, leading to this whole battle, while in the other section of the fortress that was out of the way of where Pyra would enter the fortress and fight against Gnorga inside. All of which were taken out of the fortress shortly before its destruction.
Not a single egg of at least all 28 that they got back, was harmed. Much to the other dragons' relief.
"Who is this villainous figure?!" Pyra demanded an answer. Trying not to let loose her anger on Gnorga if the other dragons would stop her.
"Who indeed!" Gnorga barked back. "And that's the thing. I asked for her name, and she didn't answer. She just said, and I quote. 'Call me, The Sorceress.' that's what she said. If I knew her name, I would've told you, so get off me." Gnorga said.
"The Sorceress?" Titan said, as he and the other dragons were now in shock again.
"Yes. That is what she said, as if I hadn't gotten through explaining it!" Gnorga said impatiently.
Which had all of the dragons in shock at what she just said. Apparently, it wasn't the average sorceress that Gnorga met before. But instead, it was 'The Sorceress' that they remembered hearing about. The one that was said to be as vile and despicable, as 'Them' that the dragons hope to not see again. At least, before the Four Dragons are ready.
So to hear of her, and her alliance with the Gnorcs, along with her desire for their dragon eggs, had them feeling that another villain is on the loose, whom is from the distant past. And she had a plan for them. The question is, what was it?
Either way, at least the dragons put a stop to that plan before it could be done.
Titan soon turned to his people on the battlefield. "Take this Gnorc to the dungeons! Where she shall be executed, just to ensure that she won't create another Rebellion!" He commanded. As the Peace Keeper dragons, with Trondo among them, obeyed and took her out of the battlefield they were in, and out of the Realm, where she will be transported to theirs.
"As for you Pyra, before we return to our search for our heroes, it is about time, that you receive your hero's welcome." Cosmos said with Ignitus, Titan, Valkyra, Vlamme, Adiel, Luanne, Lume and Luna among others in agreement. As Ignitus and some dragons raised Pyra in the air.
Where they each had her paraded around as the dragons gave their cheers. "Hip hip," Titan called out.
"Hooray!"
"Hip hip,"
"Hooray!"
"Hip hip,"
"Hooray!"
All of the dragons cheered out to Pyra as they victoriously were walking, then flying away from the conquered and destroyed fortress as they were cheering for her in celebration for her victory over the Rebellion's leader.
While Pyra, was shyly blushing at the praise, while she was also curious about the Sorceress, and why the dragons were getting shocked at her mention, but she felt like asking later. As she decided to simply take the applause, regardless of her shyness wanting to hide her face behind her wings. But she didn't as she merely accepted the carry by the dragons, celebrating her victory.
Afterwards, some is going to clean up the rest of the battlefield, particularly the fortress, while some of them would take down any stray Gnorc rebel that crosses their path, and while the rest, continues their search for the dragons throughout the Worlds, then the Gnorc world for last, just in case they're there.
If not, then they are returning to Dragon Shores to find them there, or to find which new World they could be in, according to Cosmos, should they still be unable to be found, there.
*Meanwhile… Back in Avalar*
It was nighttime back in the Winter Tundra, the third Home World of Avalar, with the castle on it that is on a Gigantic Mountain in Avalar, as the Avalari main group, including Elora, was there at the Super Portal, each of whom were in high spirits.
Now that Ripto is beaten and gone, they were now back to the Super Portal, where they were now working on it, in their attempt to link the Portal to the Dragon Worlds, particularly Dragon Shores, in order to send the Four Dragons back there. Which would be a bittersweet thing to do, as they were fond of them throughout their time together in their journey throughout Avalar. And now they were about to send them back home once they get the Super Portal operational, and link it to Dragon Shores.
Which would seem to be like a difficult task for them, since though they have regained a lot of Orbs due to the Four Brave Dragons' efforts, they didn't have all of them back. As though they have the Summer Forest, and Autumn Plains Orbs collected, the Winter Tundra Realms' Orbs were still hidden throughout, and they were going to keep it that way, just in case Ripto is still out there, and about to strike. If he isn't showing up by the time they send the Dragons home, and if he still doesn't appear afterwards, then he truly is beaten, and they are finding the rest of them after sending them back.
For now, the Professor was still making calculations on his calculator, while smiling at his new addition to the Portal that he added. While Elora was watching Hunter's mothers berating Hunter III as she placed the collected Orbs back to the Super Portal's arch.
They themselves didn't approve of what he has done to Hunter IV either. As his lie about his banishment was harsh on him. Even if it was well intentioned. Which was why they berated him while protectively hugging Hunter IV.
"It was well intentioned, but for shame, Hunter III. You should've thought of a different plan than this!" Cleo said.
To which, he didn't really make an argument back against them, as he felt that they had a right to berate him for his actions. But at least they didn't hate his guts for that. But for a while, they aren't going to let him live down the fact that their nephew was put through a bit of a wringer, for nothing. And he knows it.
All while Hunter IV, was also hugging them back, feeling relieved about the fact that he's going back home with them to the village, when they send the Four Brave Dragons off. Where once there, he's going to swallow his pride, and apologize for his actions for what he has done in the past, considering his rivalry with the Four Brave Dragons, prior to burying the hatchet with them.
He feels confident that they will forgive him, considering that he is considered among his village people fondly, even by the other chiefs. Regardless of his goofball antics, and his occasional cocky traits as he tries to be a hero that Avalar would praise. Not to mention him being the reason why Ripto came to Avalar in the first place, though in his defense, he didn't mean to.
But now, they were now in the courtyard of the Winter Tundra as the Professor was now quieting down Hunter's mothers' conversation with Hunter III.
"Hold it please! Before we continue, I would like to announce that I think I've found a way to access the Dragon Worlds through this Super Portal." He said, before he then gestured to his addition that was on the top of the Super Portal's arch.
Which was a Crystal. A magical powerful Crystal at that, which was Dodecahedron shaped.
"This Power Crystal should give us the extra boost that we need. Just a few more calculations to set it up…" He said, scribbling on his clipboard. "I think I have it… Excellent! It is all finally ready." He said, with the group in delight. "We still need to collect the rest of the Orbs, but with the Crystal boosting it, the Super Portal shall work again." He said.
Which was a delight to hear for the group. Now they just needed to wait for Spyro and his friends to show up, so that they can send them home again.
As they waited though, a spherical object landed near their feet from under the arch. Which upon inspection, they all ended up gasping in horror when they saw what it was.
A spherical bomb, with its wick lit and about to reach the bomb.
Which had them running as Elora picked up the Professor before jumping away, just as the bomb exploded. Which harmed no one. But it had the courtyard shaking.
And it was enough to dislodge the Crystal from the top of the arch as it landed on the ground in front of them, where the bomb used to be.
When they wondered where it came from, they heard some cackling as each of them ended up blanching at what they ended up seeing.
Ripto himself was there, as he was cackling, while holding another spherical bomb in his hand with an evil grin.
So, you fools thought that you have gotten rid of me? Well I'm afraid not. You see, I persuaded that fat bear into selling me a few bombs." He said, referring to Moneybags.
It was not easy for him though, as he remembered having met him, shortly after Gulp's demise. Unfortunately for him, without Gulp, Moneybags has become brave enough to be resistant to whatever his plans are for Avalar. At least, until Ripto decided to bribe him with some more Gems in his possession.
An expensive buy for sure. But at this point, it was oh so worth it.
Seeing the Power Crystal in front of him, Elora was terrified of what he could do with it once he notices it. "Quick! The Power Crystal!" She said to the Professor, and Hunter among others.
But Ripto had them covered in a bad way. "Don't even think about it, you scum! Especially you, book boy. Or you will be the world's smartest pile of ashes." He said, threatening him and the group with his remaining bomb.
Now they were forced to simply stand back and let him take the Crystal that he was grinning at. "This thing could be just what I need for a new scepter." He said, knowing what to do with it.
Something that they all expected. "Hunter, do something! Quick!" Elora said.
Hunter IV obeyed, bravely charging at Ripto, who was sidestepping him, as he was on his way towards the steps of the Winter Tundra castle. "Hey, give that back!" He said, as he had him held up by the cape before he could make it to the stairs.
For once, Hunter IV was being brave, and was now ready to fight Ripto, now that he had no minion to help him.
Ripto though, merely glared meanly at him. "You touched my cape." He said, quietly yet angrily.
Then before the group knew it, he kicked Hunter in the abs, making him drop Ripto, before he was soon punching him on his chest after tossing the Crystal in the air to use both hands, and stepping on one of his feet, before roundhouse kicking him across the face, hitting him in his right eye, just before he caught the Crystal as it dropped, before going back up the stairs as Hunter IV laid on the floor, nursing his bruises.
All while the group witnessed the beating, which they totally didn't expect to happen, much to their shock and horror.
"Did you all think that just because I'm a sorcerer, it means that I'm physically weak? You all thought wrong." He said, smugly as he climbed the stairs of the Winter Tundra, which there was plenty of as he was now on the tall top of the stairs, in front of the entrance.
"Well… I tried." He said, grimacing as his mothers and uncle was near him, hoping he was alright. Which he was, he just has some bruises on him, and in need of an ice pack for his black eye.
While Ripto was cackling. "And now, you little fools, after I remake my scepter, and defeat those Dragons once they arrive, and enslave you all, I shall rename this whole world, Riptonia!" He said, before continuing to cackle, before going to the entrance of the castle. Which was now a door that he was going to enter, but only one person was there.
Being Moneybags, who was counting the gems that he was given by Ripto.
Whom, he kicked aside, and out of the entrance. And into the courtyard, as he yelled in distress before landing with a loud thud behind the group. Before they then saw the Avalar banners changing. From their banners, to Ripto's banners, signalling his capture of Winter Tundra.
It seems that Ripto isn't out of the fight just yet, and that the group were still in need of the Four Brave Dragons. They all just hoped, that this upcoming fight will end in their favor, as they were now waiting for them to arrive.
Their final battle has just begun.
And done.
Sorry this took a while. But here it is, another chapter to The Four Brave Dragons, that ends the little subplot with Pyra back in the Dragon Worlds as she fights and defeats the rebels, before we come back to Avalar to begin the third and final world of Avalar. Being the Winter Tundra. In my opinion, the second favorite Home World in Spyro 2 to be in. (The first being Autumn Plains.)
And it seems that Ripto has proven that he isn't out of the fight yet. As he has gained himself a new power source for his scepter. Now the Four Brave Dragons still has a way to go before they can return home.
And a little trivia about this place, for those that don't know, this is the only Home World that doesn't have a Talisman to give in its Realms. Instead, only Orbs are your rewards from here on out. Which considering how much Spyro would need to face Ripto, being forty, it was a good move to do such, though not enough to help reach the required amount should the player have collected only the talismans throughout the journey.
Another trivia, is that this is also the only Home World where Hunter doesn't meet Spyro in any of its Realms, not counting Canyon Speedway.
Now with the trivia out of the way, I hope you guys shall enjoy my depiction of their journey through the Winter Tundra. And could they hope to beat him? And what sort of twists could he be planning? Only time has answers.
Finally, one more thing.
I hope that you enjoyed the chapter,
please give constructive criticism,
do not forget to read and review,
and once again, Spyro the dragon is created by Insomniac games, and is currently owned by Microsoft, Activision, and Toys for Bob. Please support the official releases.
Theodore the Poet signing off.